Pioneer incorporates sophisticated audio technologies into its line of home-theater receivers, including digital connections for high-definition television and computers, digital inputs for audio-visual components such as Blu-Ray players, and sound processing electronics to produce accurate Dolby (TM) Surround Sound effects. Fortunately, there are systematic steps for diagnosing basic problems.
Check the Connections
A loose or unplugged power cord might be at the root of your problem. You should also check the cables connecting your audio-video gear to the Pioneer receiver as well as the electrical cables that supply power to those components.
Toggle among different components to isolate the problem. For example, if the DVD player is working normally with the Pioneer receiver, but the video-game console is not working, you either have a problem with the gaming system, the connection between it and the receiver, or there is a faulty internal connection for the source selector that lets you choose among various components connected to the receiver.
Although you probably are not going to be able to fix a switch mechanism or other internal problems, you will at least be able to isolate the trouble to save time at the repair shop. Don't overlook the wireless connection between your remote control and the Pioneer. A fresh set of batteries in the remote might get you back in business.
Speakers and Sound
A quick check of the circuit breakers on your speakers may isolate the problem to a specific channel. A power surge may trip the circuit breaker and shut off a speaker. You can also check the speaker wires to make sure they are fastened securely in the spring clips on the back of the receiver as well as the speakers themselves.
Use the audio test function on the Pioneer's remote control to send a "white noise" signal to each speaker in your system and verify it is working normally. Pioneer receivers are designed to shut off power to the external speakers when a headphone jack is plugged in. If you hear no sound from your speaker system, check to see if the headphones are plugged into the receiver. If you connect a personal audio device such as an iPod to the front panel of the receiver via the component's built-in mini jack, make sure the plug is secure.
Digital Dilemmas
Pioneer receivers are equipped with USB, HDMI and digital inputs for connecting high-definition TVs, computers and Blu-Ray players. If you are not receiving a video signal on your TV monitor, or there is no sound from one of these digital components, turn off the power for 5 minutes and switching it back on. With a computer connection, reboot the computer or laptop. You should also make sure the cables are firmly seated in the digital inputs on back of the receiver.
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